Vodacom Lesotho Foundation and government strengthen partnership for digital inclusion
BOKANG MOSHOESHOE
MASERU – Vodacom Lesotho Foundation and the Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation have renewed a working partnership for the long-term sustainability of the Insight Centre to improve access to information for people living with visual impairments.
Insight Centre is a digital library established to support visually impaired individuals in Lesotho.
Based at the State Library, the centre is equipped with specialised assistive technology that enables people with visual impairments to access information independently.
The two institutions recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which marks an important step in strengthening digital inclusion in the country and aligns with the government’s broader digital transformation agenda, which seeks to ensure that technology benefits all Basotho, including people with disabilities.
The Insight Centre was first established in 2019 by Vodacom Lesotho Foundation in response to the difficulties many visually impaired people face when trying to access information, education and employment opportunities. Since its launch, it has served as a vital resource, demonstrating how technology can empower individuals and help them participate more fully in society.
Access and Inclusion Coordinator at the Vodacom Lesotho Foundation, Keneuoe Semphi, emphasised the importance of access to information in improving people’s lives adding that the Foundation invested approximately M2 million to establish the Insight Centre and equip it with specialised tools designed specifically for blind and visually impaired users.
Semphi said access to information should never be considered a privilege but rather a fundamental right. She said when people are able to access information easily, they become more capable of making informed decisions, pursuing education and contributing to the economy.
“Access to information empowers people. When individuals have the tools they need to learn and develop their skills, they are able to participate socially, economically and independently,” Semphi stated.
Head of the Vodacom Lesotho Foundation, Ts’epo Ntaopane, also reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to promoting inclusive development. He explained that the partnership reflects Vodacom’s broader vision of connecting communities and improving lives through technology.
Ntaopane highlighted that inclusive education remains one of the Foundation’s key priorities, noting that every child in Lesotho deserves equal opportunities regardless of their background or physical ability.
He further stressed that the private sector has an important role to play in addressing social challenges such as unemployment and inequality. By supporting initiatives like the Insight Centre, companies can contribute to building a more inclusive society while also empowering vulnerable groups.
“At a time when unemployment remains a serious challenge, organisations must actively participate in initiatives that promote skills development and economic inclusion,” he said.
Principal Secretary at the Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation, Kanono Ramashamole, welcomed the partnership and praised the role of the Vodacom Lesotho Foundation in supporting national development.
Ramashamole explained that accessibility is a key component of the government’s digital transformation strategy launched in 2023. The strategy aims to expand digital infrastructure, promote digital literacy and ensure that all citizens benefit from technological advancements.
Officials from both institutions expressed confidence that the renewed partnership will strengthen the impact of the Insight Centre and ensure that it continues to serve visually impaired communities across the country.
For many people living with visual impairments, the centre has become a gateway to knowledge and opportunity. By providing access to specialised technologies and training, it enables users to read digital books, conduct online research, learn new skills and communicate more effectively.
As Lesotho continues its journey toward digital transformation, initiatives such as the Insight Centre demonstrate how inclusive policies and partnerships can help bridge the digital divide.
Through this collaboration, the Vodacom Lesotho Foundation and the Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation hope to ensure that technological progress benefits everyone, leaving no one behind. Their partnership reflects a shared belief that digital inclusion is not only a development priority but also a powerful tool for creating a more equal and empowered society.
